Chelsea boss Benitez delighted with Europa League final berth

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By Alex Young

The Spaniard is set to leave Stamford Bridge at the end of the season when his short-term contract ends, but he commended his players' attitudes after reaching the May 15 showpiece

Chelsea interim manager Rafael Benitez spoke of his delight after helping the Blues secure a place in the Europa League final.

The Spaniard was appointed in November following the sacking of Roberto Di Matteo just six months after leading the club to a first-ever Champions League triumph.

Chelsea now has the chance to win a second consecutive European crown against Benfica on May 15, and Benitez has hailed his squad’s ability during his tenure.

"I came to do a professional job with the commitment of the players," Benitez told ITV. "I am pleased for them and everyone here. "We have had a very good atmosphere, the players have always worked hard, they have always done their job. I was pleased with them before this game and I am pleased with them now."

Mohammed Salah notched just before half-time to create a tense atmosphere around Stamford Bridge, but second-half goals from Victor Moses, Fernando Torres and a stunning strike from David Luiz secured a 3-1 win on the night and a convincing 5-2 aggregate scoreline.

Benitez continued: "We had two clear chances in the first half but did not take them, we conceded the late goal at the end of the first half and the players had to react.

"Credit to them because they did. We scored three and controlled the game."